Grants from the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR) at ACL have been awarded under the Field Initiated Projects (FIP) for Research and Development.
The purpose of FIP is to generate new knowledge through research or to develop methods, procedures, and rehabilitation technology that maximize the full inclusion and integration into society, employment, independent living, family support, and economic and social self-sufficiency of individuals with disabilities. These projects are unique because they come from ideas proposed by the field.
Each grant's funding level is approximately $200,000 per year for three years starting September 30, 2017.
See highlights of anticipated outcomes from a sampling of FIP grants:
- Real World Testing of a Brain-Computer Interface to Operate a Commercial Augmentative and Alternative Communication System: University of Michigan
This project will test an augmentative and alternative communication device prototype that uses a brain-computer interface to optimize communication abilities of people with paralysis due to amytrophic lateral sclerosis, severe cerebral palsy, or brainstem strokes. They will also work to improve procedures and tools for assessments and in-home training for using the device. - Progressive Employment for Individuals with the Most Significant Disabilities: University of Massachusetts-Boston
This project will research the efficacy of a progressive employment model designed to improve competitive employment outcomes for vocational rehabilitation clients with the most significant disabilities. The objective is to determine the impact of the model as a strategy for improving competitive outcomes for people with barriers to employment. - GoCC4All--Using Pervasive Technology to Provide Access to TV to the Deaf-blind Community: DiCapta Foundation
This project will develop, prove, and transfer to the Deaf-blind community a new technology product that will allow people who are Deaf-blind to receive content and information that is delivered via television. - Optimizing Accessible Public Transportation: State University of New York at Buffalo
This project will evaluate the strengths and limitations of two innovative wheelchair securement systems on large accessible transit vehicles in fixed route service. Previous laboratory tests demonstrate significant benefits over the conventional four-point tiedown securement approach. Researchers will verify lab findings in real service conditions, quantify benefits for riders and operators, and identify needs for future design improvements to increase adoption of these systems. - PHOENIX--Development of a Spinal Cord Injury Peer-Supported Self-Management Intervention: Medical University of South Carolina
This project will develop and pilot test a SCI Peer Navigation intervention using online and telehealth platforms to promote the self-management, health, community participation, and quality of life outcomes of people with spinal cord injury. The goal is to improve participant's community participation and quality of life while decreasing impact and occurrence of secondary conditions and re-hospitalizations.
Visit here for more information about 2017 NIDILRR grantees.
Within ACL, NIDILRR works to generate new knowledge and promote its effective use to improve the abilities of individuals with disabilities to perform activities of their choice in the community; and to expand society's capacity to provide full opportunities and accommodations for people with disabilities. NIDILRR conducts its work through grants that support research and development.